The Orbiter, a quarter-scale replica of a NASA spaceship, is en route to the Coca-Cola Science Center at Columbus State University in Georgia after 14 years at the Calgary International Airport.

Calgary airport’s popular space shuttle has taken off, for good.

The Orbiter, a quarter-scale replica of a NASA spaceship, is on its way to the Coca-Cola Science Center at Columbus State University in Georgia following a 14-year stint at Calgary International Airport. Originally built by NASA for testing purposes, the Orbiter made its way north in 2000 to be part of the Calgary Airport Authority’s SpacePort educational program. It was accompanied by a piece of moon rock, which will remain here.

“It’s been a great asset when educating students,” said Jody Moseley, a spokeswoman for the airport authority.

Over the years, the historical artifact was visited by millions of travellers and schoolchildren.

“It’s a nice piece for families when they come to the airport and we’ve enjoyed sharing that with the public.”

Because of its large and fragile nature, the Orbiter was moved through the airport gradually over the past week before it was finally loaded onto a plane. Moseley said people who realized it was on its last journey snapped photos and tweeted about it.

“I think a lot of people were taking the opportunity to say goodbye to it,” she said.

The Orbiter departed for Columbus on Friday.

Quelle: The Calgary Herald